Beach party to get a boat on the bay

A family fun day is coming to Torquay, set to raise money for the protection and monitoring of local marine sanctuaries and wildlife.
The Victorian Marine Animal Defence (VMAD) Geelong Chapter’s Boat on the Bay Beach Fundraiser will be held at Torquay Surf Life Saving Club on Saturday April 2 from midday.
Musicians and celebrity guest speakers will be at the event along with children’s entertainment, Harley Davidson tours, food and market stalls, live auctions and raffles, a jumping castle and much more.
Some performers include Audemia, Sisters Doll (as seen on Australia’s Got Talent) and Famous Will.
VMAD works with Fisheries, Parks and Wildlife and Port Authority to patrol local waters, bearing witness to overfishing, marine sanctuary incursions and the deliberate navigation of crafts too close to marine wildlife.
The aim of the event is to raise enough money to operate a new patrol boat.
“It is up to all of us to ensure the conservation of our natural environment, as to have future generations enjoy the wonders that nature provides and concentrating on our local bay and environment is something the entire community should be behind,” VMAD Bellarine leader and co-ordinator Rachel Calleja said.
VMAD organise regular educational talks at yacht, sailing, angling, fishing clubs as well as dive, tackle and surf shops all around our bay, the Gippsland Lakes and along the Victorian coast to bring this outreach campaign to the public.
Entry to the fundraiser is $10 for adults and a gold coin donation for children.
Donations for raffle and auction items are being sought now. Anyone who would like to donate is invited to contact Rachel at [email protected].
For more information on VMAD and the Boat on the Bay Beach Fundraiser, head to vmad.org.au.